The sportsbooks have already turned their attention to the 2026‑27 college football season, and the numbers tell a clear story. According to BetMGM, Ohio State sits at the top of the national championship board with +600 odds, making the Buckeyes the clear favorite to capture the title.
In the Big Ten race, Ohio State also leads the pack with +180 odds to win the conference, a testament to the program’s consistent dominance and the expectations placed on its coaching staff.
Heisman Contenders Emerging
Two Buckeyes are already generating Heisman buzz. Quarterback Julian Sayin carries +1100 odds, while wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is listed at +1200, the highest price among non‑quarterback players. Their performances will be closely watched as the season unfolds.
The conversation extends beyond Columbus. CJ Carr and Arch Manning both sit at +750, placing them in the same tier as the top quarterbacks in the nation. Their names frequently appear alongside Sayin and Smith in early Heisman discussions.
Other powerhouses are also reflected in the odds. Notre Dame and Indiana are priced at +700 and +750 respectively for the national title, while Texas and Oregon sit at +750 and +800. Georgia, traditionally a heavyweight, is listed at +900.
The Big Ten conference odds add another layer of intrigue, with Indiana and Oregon both showing +250 and +280 respectively to win the league, indicating a competitive race that could reshape the standings before the first game.
All eyes will turn to Ohio Stadium on September 5, when the Buckeyes open their season against Ball State. The matchup not only marks the start of the schedule but also serves as the first real test of the betting market’s expectations.
As the season progresses, the odds will shift based on performance, injuries, and emerging storylines. For now, the data paints a picture of a team poised to contend, a conference ready for surprise, and a handful of players whose names could become synonymous with the next wave of college football lore.